www.ffa.org/participate/next-generation-conference/
(March, 10, 2026/National FFA Organization) – The National FFA Organization is proud to host Next Gen conferences for members three times a year that focus on specific career pathways to in-demand industries. Earlier this month, the first FFA Next Gen Conference of 2026 was held in Raleigh, North Carolina, with a focus on hands-on learning in power, structural and technical systems.
FFA members apply to attend Next Gen conferences, which provide an opportunity to map out their future careers through exploration sessions, industry roundtable discussions and tours. The Raleigh event took place at the Embassy Suites by Hilton in the Research Triangle, with 72 FFA members participating from around the country. Members toured John Deere Turf Care and BASF during the conference.
“We know FFA members are the next generation of leaders who will fill the talent pipeline in not only agriculture, but other related and in-demand industries,” said Ashli Weinrich, program specialist, Advocacy, Literacy & Ag Based Experiences, Programs and Events Division, National FFA Organization. “These Next Gen conferences open doors for high school sophomores, juniors and seniors to get an in-depth look at career opportunities for their futures before they even graduate high school.”
The March conference brought together 30 sophomores, 22 juniors, and 20 seniors from more than 22 states to develop employability skills, discover career interests and goals, and network with professionals working in these fields.
The following regional high school students were selected to attend the conference through a competitive application process:
Minnesota
Caden Fravel
North Dakota
Marisa Mumm
South Dakota
Jordan Herrlein
Preston O’Connor
The National FFA Organization covers lodging, meals and other expenses during the conference through the generosity of corporate partners. In Raleigh, sponsors included John Deere as a Level 1 Corporate Sponsor, Case IH, New Holland, and CNH Industrial as Level 2 Corporate Sponsors, and AEM (Association of Equipment Manufacturers) as a Level 3 Corporate Sponsor.
Each tour stop is carefully planned to provide a learning experience for student attendees. John Deere Turf Care is a manufacturing facility for its commercial golf lines. Members were able to see one of their commercial power lines, participate in a panel discussion with a few employees and complete an activity building a product that can hold weight while trying to make it as light as possible. FFA members participating in these immersive experiences can then develop a road map for their futures, as they take the next steps after high school graduation.
Next Gen Conferences occur three times this year in different states, each with the goal of preparing the next generation of leaders who will feed, fuel, clothe and sustain the world through educational and career exploration opportunities. The next conferences will take place in Chicago and Kansas City later this year. You can find out about other conferences planned for 2026 by visiting https://www.ffa.org/
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